The South West Aboriginal Medical Services (SWAMS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health service based in Bunbury. We provide a comprehensive range of health and wellbeing services to Aboriginal people across the South West, Great Sothern, Upper Wheatbelt, and Peel regions of Western Australia.
Our services include GP clinics, primary health care, counselling, and a variety of community programs designed to support holistic wellbeing.
SWAMS is committed to continuous growth through strong partnerships and community development, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve.
SWAMS is dedicated to enhancing employment opportunities and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. To promote equality and support, this position will be subject to Section 51 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA). Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply and will be given preference for this role.
We are seeking a passionate and culturally responsive Counsellor to join our Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) and Mental Health Team.
This role plays a vital part in delivering culturally safe, person-centred support to Aboriginal individuals and families. You will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to promote healing, resilience, and connection to culture, community, and Country.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide culturally secure counselling, case management, advocacy, and capacity-building support
- Deliver high-quality services across mental health, alcohol and other drugs (AOD), disability, and SEWB
- Create a safe and respectful environment where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered
- Facilitate group programs and therapeutic activities where appropriate
- Work collaboratively with internal teams and external service providers to ensure holistic care
- Maintain accurate electronic client records and complete required data reporting
- Contribute to community engagement, health promotion, and outreach activities
- Demonstrate strong organisational, time management, and problem-solving skills
Essential Criteria
- Hold a tertiary qualification in Counselling, Mental Health Social Work, or a related field
- Current registration with a relevant professional board or association
- Demonstrated experience in mental health, AOD, and/or SEWB support
- Strong understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, values, and community needs
- Awareness of the historical and social factors impacting Aboriginal health and wellbeing
- Well-developed counselling and therapeutic skills
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective relationships within a multidisciplinary team
- Ability to manage risk and maintain a structured counselling caseload
- Experience with data collection, case documentation, and reporting requirements
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Desirable
- Experience working within an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO)
- Knowledge of local community and cultural networks
- Experience delivering group programs
Why SWAMS?
Along with working with passionate people and being able to feel like you have contributed to something every day, SWAMS offers the following:
- 17.5% leave loading
- Up to $18,550 salary packaging options and novated leasing options
- Discounted gym memberships
- Uniforms supplied
- Generous leave allowances
At SWAMS, child safety is our highest priority. We are committed to the wellbeing of all children and young people, with zero tolerance for abuse. All team members have a legal and moral duty to ensure a safe environment and are required to undergo a National Police Clearance. Roles involving direct contact with children also require a valid WA Working with Children Check as part of our pre-employment screening.
For more information about SWAMS and the role:
- About SWAMS, our great organisation – https://www.swams.com.au/about/
- For queries – please contact Human Resources on (08) 97978111.
To Apply
To apply for this role please follow the online application process of this platform or email your application through to: HR@SWAMS.com.au . We also welcome you to drop your resume to our office at 30 Wellington Street, Bunbury.
